A Grand Rapids guide is a great way to navigate through all of the wonderful activities that await in this exciting city. There really are so many great things to do in Grand Rapids, it may be difficult to get them all in during just one weekend. Opportunities for fine dining, shopping, art, and nightlife are around practically every corner. Grand Rapids has some spectacular beaches, historic sites, and places to explore the great outdoors. Planning the perfect day in Grand Rapids is simply a matter of choosing what resonates best with one’s personality and vision for fun, inspiration, and freedom.
Grand Rapids is a great city to explore history and culture. The Grand Rapids Museum features classroom exhibits on history, nature, and local heritage. In this facility, ride a 1928 carousel, watch a planetarium show, and eat in a cafe overlooking the gorgeous Grand River, all under one roof.
The Grand Rapids Art Museum features works from national and international artists, and pieces from the Renaissance to modern art. The museum houses an exquisite collection of European and American 19th- and 20th-century paintings and sculptures.
A not-to-be-missed attraction in any Guide to Grand Rapids is the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, which sits on 132 acres of natural beauty. The Sculpture Park is the most comprehensive collection of sculpture in the midwest, and the gardens include impressive indoor and outdoor displays as well as a children’s garden.
Pick up some Grand Rapids deals on local restaurants, like Teshlou’s Little Africa, which serves up vegan Ethiopian cuisine. Gaia Cafe is a peaceful place for a cup of organic coffee or tea, and the Green Restaurant sells delicious veggie burgers, complete with an outdoor seating area.
Other exciting things to do in Grand Rapids include a trip to the John Ball Zoo, a picnic in Millenium Park, or a theater performance at DeVos Performance Hall.